Tom’s Update November 2025: Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays!

At PIER, we are deeply grateful for everyone who continues to support our mission. To those who have already helped us, we are truly indebted. And if you’re considering getting involved, we warmly invite you to learn more about us.

Recent News:  PIER works with the Pacific Fisheries Management Council (PFMC) to expand its exempted testing platform.

Costa Mesa Pacific Fisheries Management Council meeting on 11/17/2025

At the scheduled November meeting, PIER presented two additional proposals to the PFMC aimed at expanding fishing effort and gear testing along the California Coast. We’re pleased to share that the Pacific Council reviewed both proposals favorably, paving the way for PIER to expand its fishing operations in 2026. This is a significant win, as it will give PIER greater flexibility to adapt to changing conditions and a better foot forward for serving our fishing community.

And, to end on some Fishy News:

A 108 inch Fork Length swordfish that was recently tagged by the PIER Team

Since our last update, PIER has caught and tagged one of the largest swordfish recorded since our swordfish research program began in 2004.  The large female measured out at 108 inches fork length which has her tipping the scale at around 600lbs.  The big girl was outfitted with an archival tag, a dorsal-fin mounted SPOT tag, and was also sampled for our ongoing genetics work.

This large female is probably getting ready for her trip to the spawning grounds; it will be interesting to see where she goes!

Looking Forward:  As the year draws to a close, we send our heartfelt wishes for a joyful holiday season. And for those who are in a position to give, we gently ask that you keep PIER in mind—your support would make a meaningful difference this year.